ISLAMABAD: Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has warned Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) against proceeding with its planned protest and march towards Islamabad, saying the government will take action in accordance with the law if the party moves ahead with its plans.
Speaking at a press conference in Lahore on Monday, Naqvi urged the PTI leadership to reconsider its approach and avoid a situation that could disrupt normal life in the federal capital.
The PTI has announced plans for a nationwide protest and march towards Islamabad on September 27. The party has linked its protest to demands including the release of its incarcerated founder, Imran Khan, while also raising concerns about his medical treatment.
Government Says IHC Order Will Be Implemented
Naqvi said the government would follow the Islamabad High Court’s orders if PTI proceeds with the planned march.
The interior minister maintained that the government would not allow Islamabad to remain shut for an extended period because of political demonstrations. He also said authorities would use available legal measures to deal with any situation arising from the protest.
According to Naqvi, the government intends to develop a long-term approach toward recurring protest calls rather than dealing with each demonstration as an isolated incident.
Naqvi Calls on PTI to Reconsider Protest Strategy
The interior minister urged PTI leaders to reconsider the decision to march towards Islamabad, arguing that repeated sit-ins and demonstrations could create difficulties for the party and its supporters.
Naqvi also claimed that there were differences within the PTI leadership over the proposed protest, saying that some party members did not favour moving ahead with the march.
The government has previously warned that road blockades and attempts to disrupt movement in Islamabad would be dealt with under the law.
Medical Treatment of Imran Khan Also Discussed
During the press conference, Naqvi was also questioned about PTI’s demand concerning the medical examination and treatment of Imran Khan.
The minister said the government would handle the matter according to applicable legal procedures. He also stated that a medical check-up had reportedly taken place at a hospital the previous night.
Naqvi maintained that treatment decisions would be made according to the law rather than solely on the basis of political demands.
Government Signals Tougher Approach to Future Protests
Naqvi’s latest remarks come amid increased government preparations ahead of the September 27 protest.
In recent days, government officials have repeatedly referred to the Islamabad High Court’s ruling concerning disruption of public roads and movement. Officials have also highlighted possible security and economic consequences if major roads and parts of the capital are blocked.
Naqvi said the government would seek a permanent course of action so that similar situations do not continue to disrupt the capital.
Meanwhile, PTI continues to maintain its position on holding the planned protest, keeping political tensions high ahead of September 27.
What Happens Next?
The coming days are expected to remain politically significant as both sides maintain their respective positions.
The government has indicated that it will enforce court orders and applicable laws, while PTI is preparing for its announced protest. The situation will depend on how the planned mobilisation develops and whether political engagement or legal measures alter the course of events.
For now, the focus remains on September 27, when PTI has announced its planned march towards Islamabad.
